UK Wine Market

UK Wine Market Overview:

The UK wine market size reached USD 26.3 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 36.3 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 3.65% during 2025-2033. Increased domestic wine production, government subsidies, growing disposable incomes, and a move toward sustainability and quality are the main factors propelling the industry. Additionally, 67% of adults drink wine in the UK, further boosting demand and supporting growth in the wine industry.

UK Wine Market Trends:

Increased Consumer Demand for Wine

The UK wine market has experienced robust growth due to rising disposable incomes, which enable more consumers to indulge in higher quality, often organic wines. As lifestyles evolve, there is a noticeable trend where consumers are seeking better quality, uniqueness, and authenticity in their wine choices, favoring products that offer a more personal touch or ecological benefit. According to UK wine market statistics, this shift is evident as demand for premium and sustainable wines continues to rise, reflecting consumers' growing preference for quality and eco-friendly options. According to the Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA), a recent study shows the industry generated over £76 Billion in economic activity in 2022. This is a significant increase from £49 Billion recorded five years prior. Moreover, the study conducted by the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) underscores the vital role of this sector, contributing over £22 Billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the UK economy last year. The UK continues to be the world's second-largest wine importer, with around 1.7 billion bottles imported in 2022, and it maintains its position as the top global exporter of spirits, shipping approximately 1.8 billion bottles overseas during the same period. This trend reflects a broader shift in consumer preferences toward more specialized wine options, driving winemakers to innovate and produce distinct, high-quality wines that meet this refined demand across the UK. Furthermore, the growing interest in domestic production has been reflected in the English wine market, with increasing investments and production of world-class wines that cater to both local and international consumers.

Expanding Domestic Wine Production

The UK's domestic wine industry has seen a significant uptick in activity and output, particularly in regions like Kent and Sussex on the production front. According to the Wines of Great Britain, the registration of 87 new vineyards pushed the total number of UK vineyards over the 1,000 mark for the first time, according to government records in 2023. This growth is further supported by the increasing demand in the still wine market in the UK, which has driven winemakers to focus on producing high-quality, distinctive still wines that resonate with both domestic and international consumers. Additionally, the number of wineries increased from 209 to 221, and the area cultivated with vines now covers 4,209 hectares, a 123% increase over the past decade. WineGB reports that the sales of English and Welsh wines have been increasing steadily, and sustainably as new vineyards begin producing. Besides, last year, sales grew by 10%, reaching 8.8 million bottles. Moreover, total sales of sparkling wines have increased to 187 % from 2018 and from 2. 2 Million bottles to 6. 2 Million in 2023. Besides this, there was a similar uptick in the sale of still wines by 117% from 1. 2 Million to 2.6 Million. This growth is due to the increase in the size of the existing vineyards and the expansion of new vineyards owing to the increased demand for wines across the UK and internationally. In addition, improvements in viticulture practices and climatic conditions have also contributed to the growing wine market. As a result, the wine market size in the UK has expanded significantly, reflecting both domestic production growth and rising consumer demand for high-quality, locally-produced wines.

Growing Demand for Premium and High-Quality Wines

Customers' growing interest for complex tastes and nuanced experiences is driving a surge in demand for premium and high-quality wines in the UK wine market.  Consumers who have greater discretionary means are increasingly prepared to pay more for wines that are of higher quality, taste, and exclusivity. This shift in consumer preferences is a key factor contributing to the UK wine industry growth, as producers respond with an expanded portfolio of high-end wines that cater to this demand for luxury and uniqueness. This change is reflected in the growth of high-end wine retailing channels, with boutique wine stores, wine clubs, and websites presenting collections of premium wines. Moreover, the millennial and Generation Z generations, more predisposed to try and experiment with finer wines, are playing a huge role in this trend. These customers are interested not only in the flavor but also in the history behind the wine, the process of making it, and the sustainability factors associated with it. Both domestic and foreign wine manufacturers are responding by launching limited-release labels, biodynamic, and organic wines to meet the demands of this specialized customer base. UK wine makers are now focusing more on quality rather than quantity, enhancing production processes, and using high-quality grapes, besides prioritizing sustainable and ethical practices, which appeals to environmentally aware consumers. According to UK wine industry statistics, this shift is driving both domestic production and increased consumer interest, contributing to the overall expansion of the sector.

Established Wine Culture and High Consumption

The wine market in the UK is still heavily influenced by the nation's long-standing wine tradition. Because wine has been a part of British culture for centuries, it is still quite popular with people of all ages and social backgrounds. Wine is seen as a common component of meals and social gatherings, not just a beverage for special occasions. This cultural affinity extends to the growing UK sparkling wine market, where consumers are increasingly opting for high-quality sparkling wines, reflecting both the UK’s rich wine heritage and evolving preferences for premium, celebratory beverages. Wine consumption in British homes has been steadily rising due to its growing prevalence, particularly with the development of casual drinking. Industry estimates indicate that a sizable portion of adults in the UK routinely consume wine, which is a popular beverage among consumers along with beer and spirits, further impelling the growth in British wine market. In addition, the popularity of wine tasting parties, wine tourism, and food and wine pairings has increased demand for both domestic and foreign wines. The UK has a strong bond with wine, and many of its established wine areas, including Sussex and Kent, have gained recognition for their excellence. This well-entrenched wine culture, combined with an increasing number of wine enthusiasts and the younger generation’s enthusiasm for wine exploration, supports continuous demand for a diverse range of products. As the UK maintains its high consumption rates, the wine market UK remains an important part of the broader alcoholic beverage industry, driving both domestic production and imports.

Innovation in Product Offerings

A major factor driving the UK wine business is product innovation, as producers continue to adapt to shifting customer tastes and new technology. Recent trends highlighted in the wine report UK show a growing demand for products like canned wines, sparkling varieties, and low-alcohol options. These innovations cater to convenience-focused and health-conscious consumers. The popularity of these formats reflects the industry’s efforts to meet demand for accessible, diverse, and sustainable wine choices. Furthermore, a larger worldwide trend towards sustainability and ethical consumption is reflected in the rising demand for organic, biodynamic, and vegan wines. In addition to satisfying consumer need, these innovations are assisting brands in standing out in a crowded market. Innovation is also greatly aided by technology, as evidenced by developments in wine production methods and packaging that guarantee improved flavor retention, longer shelf life, and ecologically friendly operations. Additionally, the growth of UK wine tourism has fueled interest in local wine regions, encouraging consumers to explore new offerings and further driving demand for innovative wine products. Furthermore, wine producers are experimenting with new grape varieties, blends, and aging techniques to offer unique and personalized experiences. This trend is particularly evident in the English sparkling wine market, where unique offerings are capturing the attention of both domestic and international wine enthusiasts.

UK Wine Market News:

• April 2025: Aldi launched the UK’s first supermarket own-label wine in an aluminium bottle, partnering with Broadland Drinks. The innovative packaging, which is 75% lighter than glass and fully recyclable, supports sustainability, reduces transport costs, and meets growing demand for eco-friendly alternatives in the wine market.
• March 2025: Vinca Wine launched the UK’s first 100% recycled aluminium wine bottle, featuring two organic wines: Catarratto and Syrah & Nero d’Avola. This eco-friendly packaging, 47% lower in carbon footprint, offers sustainability and convenience, pushing innovation in the UK wine market.
• In August 2024, Shepherd Neame, the oldest brewery in Britain based in Faversham, introduced a new collection of English wines through a partnership with the acclaimed Balfour Winery. These two Kent-based, independently owned family businesses have collaborated to produce English Garden, featuring a refined white wine and a fresh rose made from grapes grown in Kent.
• In June 2024, Chapel Down, the largest wine producer in the UK, is considering financing options regarding its business development, which include sales and fundraising. The firm needs more capital to fund its expansion plans, which include the purchase of new vineyards, construction of a new winery that is planned to be operational by the 2026 harvest, and the continued expansion of its Tenterden wine estate.

UK Wine Market Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the country level for 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on product type, color, and distribution channel.

Product Type Insights:

• Still Wine
• Sparkling Wine
• Fortified Wine and Vermouth

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the product type. This includes still wine, sparkling wine, and fortified wine and vermouth.

Color Insights:

• Red Wine
• Rose Wine
• White Wine

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the color have also been provided in the report. This includes red wine, rose wine, and white wine.

Distribution Channel Insights:

• Off-Trade
  • Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
  • Specialty Stores
  • Online Stores
  • Others
• On-Trade

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the distribution channel. This includes off-trade (supermarkets and hypermarkets, specialty stores, online stores, and others) and on-trade.

Regional Insights:

• London
• South East
• North West
• East of England
• South West
• Scotland
• West Midlands
• Yorkshire and The Humber
• East Midlands
• Others

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include London, South East, North West, East of England, South West, Scotland, West Midlands, Yorkshire and The Humber, East Midlands, and Others.

Top Wine Companies in UK:

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape. Competitive analysis such as market structure, key player positioning, top winning strategies, competitive dashboard, and company evaluation quadrant has been covered in the report. Also, detailed profiles of all major companies have been provided.

UK Wine Market Report Coverage:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the UK wine market from 2019-2033.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the UK wine market.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the UK wine industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.